Neil Lennon insists Celtic are»in a better place» since their Champions League defeat to Cluj in August and says his players have plenty of motivation ahead of Thursday night’s Europa League clash.
The outfit on aggregate from August, following a 4-3 home defeat knocked out of the Champions League qualifiers the Hoops.
Ahead of the second Group E fixture after a 1-1 draw at Rennes, the Celtic manager explained:»We’ve got great belief about ourselves now. There is cohesion and understanding and of course players’ve a lot of match rhythm and match period and a familiarity.
«In that regard we’re in a much better place today perhaps than we had been then. There is a new back four, less or more, a new goalkeeper and now we have been on a good run because then, more or less won every game aside from the weekend (against Hearts).
«I’ve been delighted with the reaction and manner of play along with the motivation which the players have. Our first-half performance (against Cluj) wasn’t up to the typical criteria so we need to tackle that.»
Celtic’s conquer is their only loss in 18 matches to date this year and although Lennon claims his side could use that as motivation, he emphasized the value of disciplined.
«We know this was a match that got away from us and there is always a chance in soccer maybe to correct a wrong, if you wish to place it that way.
«Perhaps a little bit of motivation for the players but the purpose is we have started the group nicely.
«We are at home and it is very important to attempt to reinforce the home advantage as soon as you’re able to. It is possible to use it so long as the players don’t get too emotional.
«We are excited about the match. It is the very first home game at the group stage and we’re extremely excited about it.»
